Instant noodles have become the latest casualty in the battle with inflight turbulence encounters. In a move prioritizing passenger safety, Korean Air has announced the removal of instant noodles from its economy class menu starting mid-August.
This decision comes amidst a reported rise in air turbulence encounters, which can pose a significant risk of hot water spills and burns.
A popular favourite with travellers on the airline, the instant noodles will no longer be available for Economy-class passengers from 15 August 2024. Passengers travelling in First-class and Business will still be able to avail themselves of the popular snack after that date.
Latest Inflight Changes
The removal of a popular instant noodle snack from inflight food service offerings becomes the latest safety initiative instigated by the carrier Korean Air. Although the item will be removed from Economy-class, it will still be available in other travel classes.
The reason for the discrepancy is that the cups of instant noodles are available to Economy passengers as part of a self-service snack offering. First-class and Business-class passengers are served the noodles by flight attendants.
The airline expressed its commitment to passenger well-being, highlighting the potential for burns during turbulence as a primary factor behind the change.
Spilled hot water from instant noodle preparation could cause serious injury to both passengers and cabin crew alike.
Some passengers will likely be disappointed to see this popular in-flight snack disappear from the menu. Korean Air has issued a clarifying statement, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing safety.
The airline is now offering alternative menu options that are less likely to cause harm during periods of turbulence. Substituted on the snack menu are items like sandwiches and hot pockets.
Doubling of Inflight Turbulence Incidents
According to a report by the ABC, Korean Air said in a statement that incidents of inflight turbulence encounters on its flights had doubled since 2019.
Last month Korean Air made changes to its inflight service procedures after recent serious incidents involving severe inflight turbulence.
The most notable change was the earlier conclusion of cabin services on medium and long-haul flights. Previously, these services wrapped up 20 minutes before landing.
Now, they end a full 40 minutes prior to touchdown. This adjustment ensures all services are completed before the aircraft begins its descent. This a phase of flight often associated with increased turbulence risk.
The latest change is likely to spark conversation among frequent flyers. Some will welcome the prioritization of safety with others possibly expressing disappointment over the loss of a convenient and familiar menu item.
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